MAIZE 

The centerpiece of this collaboration is Niger State’s bold vision to increase annual paddy production from the current 1.5 million tons to an unprecedented 10 million tons by 2030. This six-fold increase represents one of Africa’s most ambitious agricultural transformation targets and positions Niger State as a critical player in Nigeria’s journey toward rice self-sufficiency.“Through this strategic partnership with AfricaRice, Niger State is committed to transforming our entire rice value chain to dramatically increase yields and production statewide. With rice being a staple food for millions of Nigerians, this partnership presents a golden opportunity to scale up proven innovations and finally achieve the rice self-sufficiency our nation deserves.” stated H.E. Hon.

Nigeria plans to double its soybean cultivation area by 2027 to improve food security, reduce imports, create jobs and boost the country’s export potential. The plan, implemented under the recently adopted National Soybean Policy and Strategy, aims to expand the current soybean area from less than one million hectares to two million hectares. The expansion is expected to produce an additional 460,000 tonnes of soybeans annually, significantly reducing the country’s production deficit, Chem Analyst News reports.

The Africa cashew market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing global demand, particularly from Asia and Europe. West African countries such as Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria dominate production, collectively contributing over 60% of global cashew nut exports. Favorable climatic conditions and expanding farmland area have supported higher yields. However, the market faces challenges like fluctuating international prices, limited processing capacity within Africa, and infrastructural constraints. Governments and private sectors are investing in improved farming techniques and processing facilities to capture more value locally.

As climate change intensifies, rice farmers in Nigeria and Kashmir risk losing their rice fields completely."I have invested more than INR 30,000 (€296) from the day of tilling till date. Spending [that amount] without any return hurts deeply. It feels like I have invested wrongly," Ganie told FairPlanet. “We are just hoping for rain because if it does not come, we will be left with nothing.”For generations, rice farming has remained a staple diet in India’s Kashmir region. The area’s lush paddy fields have not only supported the livelihoods of farmers but have also shaped rural identity and tradition.